This is a common question that plagues people who are interested in getting dreadlocks.
There is no right answer – it depends mostly on how thick your hair is and what technique you (or the local loctician) will use to get your starter locs.
Longer Hair Is Obviously Better For Locs
It is first important to decide how long you want your dreadlocks to be and then work out the length of your loose hair before you start making the locs.
The longer your hair, the better it will lock up and mature into dreadlocks. The shorter your hair, the harder it will be to form and hold the shape of dreadlocks.
You will find that most salon professionals will insist that your hair should be at least shoulder-length to give it a better chance to twist and hold the shape of dreads.
If you are planning on getting extensions added to your hair, a length of 2 to 3 inches (5 -10 cm) is sufficient, although additional length is preferable. Longer hair allows for a better seal between the extension and your real hair.
If you are planning on twisting your own locs, your hair needs to be at least 6 to 8 inches (15 cm) if your hair is straight. For African hair, which has a coarser texture, 2 to 3 inches (5 -10 cm) is sufficient to start dreadlocks.
Give your hair time to grow longer before making dreadlocks if it is too short. Whether you opt for extensions or twist your own hair, wait until your hair grows to ensure your dreadlocks form well.